MANILA, Philippines — A member of the Philippine Marines was killed while another was wounded after they shot each other while manning a checkpoint in Basilan on Christmas eve.
Initial reports on Thursday said that Sgt. Errol Molin Chaves, 31, of Barangay Poblacion, Bingwan, Iloilo City, died from a gunshot wound on his chest and arm.
Private First Class Dave Bryan Cerbito Abang, 23,of Tacurong City, who also sustained gunshot wounds, is now being treated for his injuries.
Police said the shooting occurred at a checkpoint near the detachment of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 at Sitio Canas, Barangay Calang Canas, Maluso town around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
The two Marines reportedly had an argument which led to the gunfight, police said.
The soldiers used their M-16 assault rifles to shoot each other.
Police are still investigating the incident.